Diary Entry - 09/09/1985
Key Facts
President Reagan makes a statement to the press on economic sanctions against South Africa.
President Reagan meets with 18 visiting Generals from NATO member nations.
Race riots begin in Birmingham, England.
Saw our Ambas. off on his return to S. Africa. Then at 10:30 I went before the press & read a statement about the exec. order I would sign listing things we were going to do with regard to apartheid in S. Africa. Many were things included in the Cong. bill calling for sanctions. I explained these were things I could agree to but eliminated parts of the bill I did not favor and that I would veto the bill if it came to my desk. This wouldn’t have been necessary if I had line item veto.
At 11 A.M. I welcomed the 18 Generals commanding their countries forces in N.A.T.O. They are here visiting our mil. bases. An issues lunch and then a meeting with Bill Casey. An amazing number of K.G.B. agents are defecting these days. We have a serious problem with the Philippines—a communist takeover is a distinct possibility.
Met briefly with leaders of the Soviet Jewry movement. Then an ec. policy Council on trade matters. I’ve approved a trade policy as part of our effort to head off the flood of protectionist bills now up on the hill.
A very enjoyable interview for the 1300 College & U. radio stations conducted by 3 students from 3 different campuses—2 girls 1 male. They were fine young people & I enjoyed myself immensely. In the evening called Gov. Alf Landon on his 98th Birthday.
